In general, similar requirements apply to acquiring utility models as for patents. However, utility model protection frequently can be obtained more quickly and cheaply. The requirement regarding the level of invention is lower for a utility model than for a patent (e.g. one inventive step in the solution is enough). Therefore, a utility model capable invention must<br/>

• be new,
• involve an “inventive step”
• be susceptible to industrial application.

Regardless of the relevant national regulations,<br/>

• technical subject matter and
• chemical products

can be protected by a utility model. Applications for processes can only be filed as patents, not as utility models.